Q: How do you make your papercuts?
A: First, I gather reference photos and sketches to draw out a design. This design is then transferred to another piece of paper–the paper I’m going to cut out. My next step involves cutting out the design with a X-Acto knife. Once the design is completely cut out, I’ll add color by gluing the design over colored paper.
Q: How do you make your papercuts?
A: First, I gather reference photos and sketches to draw out a design. This design is then transferred to another piece of paper–the paper I’m going to cut out. My next step involves cutting out the design with a X-Acto knife. Once the design is completely cut out, I’ll add color by gluing the design over colored paper.
Q: How long does it take to create an original piece?
A: Anywhere from 2 to 10 days. It depends on the complexity and size of the design.
Q: When did you start papercutting?
A: In middle school I saw a Chinese papercut from a newspaper. This simple black and white papercut really inspired me. I took some origami paper and copied the design from the newspaper to create my very first papercut. This was the genesis of my lifelong kirie journey.
Q: Did you go to art school to learn this art form?
A: No. Everything is self-taught.
Q: Where can I see your work?
A: My work is displayed at different galleries in the Pacific Northwest. Check out my homepage for any upcoming events.
Q: Was that your work at Pike Place Market?
A: Yes. I created the “Song of the Earth” mural at Pike Place Market commemorating Japanese-American farmers. It’s located behind Rachel (the pig) and in front of the fish throwers!
Q: Do you have any other public installations?
A: Yes. There are public installations at Nikkei Manor and Uwajimaya Village.
Q: How long have you been doing this?
A: As long as I can remember. Actually, I started kirie in my middle school years, but seriously started papercutting when I moved to Washington State from Singapore in 1978. I tried various other disciplines of art and crafts in Singapore and Japan, but really focused on kirie when I moved to the Pacific Northwest.